Finn sees the funny side as he prepares for Ashes sledging

ENGLAND pace bowler Steven Finn has a simple message for those Aussies lining up to question his Ashes credentials: Bring it on.

The 6ft 8in Middlesex seamer came in for some stick from the notoriously opinionated Australian crowd during England’s warm-up victory in Perth last week.

Speaking ahead of England’s second tour match against South Australia, which starts today, Finn revealed he would revel in the “banter” that goes towards making the Ashes such a special occasion. “We copped a bit of abuse at the WACA last week in that last innings. It’s something we’re prepared for, we’ll embrace and we’re going to try to enjoy,” he said.

“You can see the funny side when people are chirping you. It’s part of what we have to expect as international cricketers, and to be able to deal with that is important.”

Finn failed to fire in the opening tour match, but hopes to find his rhythm over the course of the next three days.

He said: “I’m 21 years old, and understand that I’m going to be inconsistent now and again. But it’s important that I don’t settle for that.”

THE BEST OF ASHES SLEDGING

Merv Hughes to Graeme Hick: “Mate, if you just turn the bat over you’ll find the instructions on the other side.”

Aussie fan to Phil Tufnell: “Tuffers, can I borrow your brain? I’m building an idiot.”